French National Day: France Reinforces Commitment to Peace in DRC at UN Security Council
During the celebration of French National Day, Ambassador Rémi Maréchaux, France’s envoy to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), delivered a speech underscoring his country’s dedication to peace in eastern DRC, strengthening Franco-Congolese cooperation, and advancing multilateralism.
In his address, held at his residence with numerous guests and dignitaries, Maréchaux emphasized that France was not celebrating its independence or President Emmanuel Macron’s tenure, but rather the values of the 1789 Revolution: liberté, égalité, fraternité.
The Security Challenge in Eastern DRC
Turning to the security situation in eastern DRC, the ambassador reaffirmed France’s unwavering support within the United Nations Security Council for a lasting resolution to the conflict. He highlighted France’s role in securing key resolutions aimed at restoring peace.
Maréchaux pointed to Resolution 2773, unanimously adopted by the UN Security Council, as a landmark measure outlining the principles for resolving the conflict. The resolution calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities by the M23, the withdrawal of its forces, and the dismantling of illegitimate parallel administrations. It also demands that the Rwandan army cease its support for M23 and withdraw from DRC territory.
Additionally, the ambassador referenced Resolution 2808, which extended the mandate of MONUSCO for another year, and Resolution 2825 (2026), which renewed sanctions against armed groups in DRC until July 1, 2027. This resolution also extends the mandate of the Group of Experts tasked with monitoring sanctions implementation.
“Two other resolutions enable MONUSCO to support the implementation of the Washington Agreement and renew sanctions against armed groups, while extending the mandate of the Group of Experts to document the situation on the ground. France commends and supports mediation efforts led by the United States, Qatar, and the African Union. As President Tshisekedi reiterated on June 30, diplomacy is not a sign of weakness. The negotiated solution is built on non-negotiable principles: respect for DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” declared Maréchaux.
Bilateral and Multilateral Cooperation
Beyond multilateral frameworks, the ambassador highlighted France’s commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation with Kinshasa, particularly in security. He cited a recent visit to Kisangani, where French instructors helped regenerate a Jungle Brigade battalion. A second battalion is set to be regenerated in October.
“Our multilateral engagement complements our bilateral efforts to strengthen state authority through police and military cooperation. In March, I visited Kisangani to oversee the regeneration of a Jungle Brigade battalion with French trainers. A second battalion will follow in October,” stated Maréchaux.
The ambassador also underscored DRC’s growing international prominence, noting its recent return to the UN Security Council, where it currently holds the presidency this month. The DRC is also a member of the UN Human Rights Council and presides over the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region. Additionally, its candidacy for Madame Juliana Lumumba to lead the International Organisation of La Francophonie reflects its strengthened engagement in the Francophonie.
The Power of Multilateralism in a Fragmented World
As geopolitical tensions rise and powerful nations increasingly impose their will on weaker ones, Maréchaux defended multilateralism as the most effective response. He argued that France is convinced that inclusive multilateralism, which integrates Africa more deeply into global governance, is the way forward.
“In the face of the current brutalization of international relations, France is convinced that the answer lies in inclusive multilateralism, which integrates Africa more fully into global governance. DRC’s return to the international stage comes at a time when, despite its crises, the country is drawing renewed attention. This reflects a growing recognition of its potential and strategic role in the energy transition and the fight against climate change,” he affirmed.
Diplomatic Progress and Lingering Challenges
Maréchaux’s remarks come amid a diplomatic landscape marked by the signing of the Washington Peace Agreement, mediated by the United States, between the DRC and Rwanda. The agreement outlines de-escalation measures, the progressive withdrawal of Rwandan forces from Congolese territory, and the neutralization of armed groups active in eastern DRC, including the FDLR, which Kigali considers a security threat. While the agreement was widely welcomed, the security situation in eastern DRC remains dire.
The Doha Process, facilitated by Qatar, aimed at fostering dialogue between the Congolese government and the AFC/M23 rebellion, has yet to yield significant progress. On the ground, the AFC/M23 rebels, accused by Kinshasa, the UN, and several international partners of receiving Rwandan support, continue to control key cities such as Goma and Bukavu, as well as numerous localities in North Kivu and South Kivu. Fighting persists in several areas, while diplomatic initiatives struggle to produce tangible results.
This persistent gap between diplomatic commitments and ground realities underscores the ongoing challenges to peace in eastern DRC.